Tie Breaker

The world’s No. 1 could only look back at how he let his chance to extend his winning streak to 18 straight games. But that still doesn’t change the fact that Roger Federer lost to Juan Martin del Potro at the BNP Paribas Open on scores of 6-4,7-6 (8), 7-6 (2).

The 36-year-old Swiss told the media afterwards that he couldn’t find his serve while his opponent were dishing out clean serves.

“As close as it can be sometimes when you’re not feeling it or momentum has shifted, it’s just crazy how it can go the other way,” he said. “But I had already missed my opportunities then.”

Federer said that if given the chance, he would like a do-over on the tiebreaker “because I don’t know what the hell happened.”

He was referring to the tiebreaker when his opponent quickly built a 6-1 lead due to the double faults recorded by the Swiss player. Federer, of course, knows first hand what del Potro was capable of.

The Argentinian also made history for his country as he became the first champion in the tournament in more than four decades.

“I cannot believe I won this tournament, beating Roger in a great final and level of tennis,” del Potro, who took home the $1.3 million purse, said.

The 29-year-old also said that he’s found joy in the game again. Also, he realized that he can compete with the big names of tennis. After his win at Acapulco, del Potro is sneaking up the ATP men’s tennis rankings as he now sits at the eighth spot with 3200 points. In comparison, Federer is at the stratosphere with 10060 points.

“First of all I want to congratulate Roger to a great week and great success in this historical year,” he said. “You’re making history and I’m so happy to be just behind you, seeing what you do.”